STILLWATER, Okla. – Native American students interested in science, medicine and paleontology are encouraged to apply to the Oklahoma State University Center for Health Science (OSU-CHS) Native Explorers Summer Program.
The free program is designed to promote and increase the number of Native Americans in science and medicine fields and runs May 18 – 27, 2011. The application deadline is April 22.
Participants will begin the program at OSU-CHS in Tulsa, Okla. interacting with physicians and medical students as well as exploring anatomy, comparing diseased and normal organs, preparing fossil specimens, reading topographical maps and learning how to use a compass and global positioning system (GPS) units.
Students will then embark on a paleontological dig in the Mojave Desert in southern California, where they will get firsthand experience in collecting and identifying fossils.
Participants will work side-by-side with research scientists from OSU-CHS and the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History to learn paleontological techniques. Archeologists and biologists from state, federal and tribal agencies may introduce participants to their protocols for the management of natural resources and the preservation and protection of historic sites as well as possible career opportunities and internships.
Applicants must satisfy the following requirements for consideration:
• Minimum 18 years of age.
• Enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe.
• Earned high school diploma or equivalent (e.g., GED), at the time of participation in the program,
• Interested in learning, especially science and medicine.
• Good academic background (grades and service). Grades will be considered but will not be a limiting factor for a successful applicant.
• Active member of an affiliated tribe (traditional). Individuals lacking this criterion but interested in learning traditional ways may be considered.
• Online submission of a letter of reference from an academic instructor.
Applicant is responsible for transportation to and from OSU-CHS.
Native American traditions and culture will be an important part of the students’ experience throughout the program.
Students may be eligible to earn three hours of college credit for their participation in the program. All expenses are paid for by the Whitten-Newman Foundation.
To apply or learn more about the program, please visit http://www.healthsciences.okstate.edu/college/native_explorers/index.cfmor contact Dr. Kent Smith, associate professor of anatomy at OSU-CHS, at